Pricing and availability
We compare 600+ stores and found this item at 1 store. Prices updated .
Store
Reviews
Price
Average Price: $1,550
High-end/Boutique
$300
$701+
Price Tier
Budget
Standard
High-end
* Product prices and availability are updated by Equipboard every 24hrs and are subject to change. Equipboard may receive compensation for purchases made at participating retailers linked on this site. This compensation does not affect what products or prices are displayed, or the order of prices listed. For more information, please refer to our affiliate disclosure.
Description
The Vox AC30 TBX is a celebrated combo guitar amplifier that has carved its niche among guitarists who crave classic British tone. This amplifier is revered for its top boost circuit, which delivers a bright, chiming sound that has defined countless recordings since the 1960s. The AC30 TBX’s all-tube design ensures a warm and dynamic response, making it a staple for professional musicians and hobbyists alike.
Equipped with a pair of 12" Celestion Greenback speakers, the AC30 TBX provides a robust sound that's perfect for both studio sessions and live performances. The amp's versatility shines through its twin-channel design, allowing players to switch seamlessly between the Normal and Top Boost channels to suit their style. The inclusion of a master volume control and treble, bass, and cut controls gives users the flexibility to craft their unique sound.
For those who appreciate aesthetics as much as functionality, the AC30 TBX boasts the classic Vox diamond grille cloth and distinctive vintage styling. It's not just an amplifier; it’s a piece of rock history that continues to inspire musicians across genres with its unmistakable tone.
Key Features:
- Top Boost Circuit for enhanced high-frequency response
- All-tube design featuring 3 x 12AX7 preamp tubes and 4 x EL84 power tubes
- Dual-channel operation: Normal and Top Boost
- Built-in tremolo and reverb effects
- Equipped with 2 x 12" Celestion Greenback speakers
- Classic Vox styling with diamond grille cloth and vintage aesthetics
Product specs
| Brand | Vox |
| Model | AC30/6 TBX 3-Channel 30-Watt 2x12" Blue Alnico Guitar Combo |
| Finish | Black, Fawn, Purple, Red |
| Year | 1994 - 2004 |
| Made In | United Kingdom |
| Categories | Guitar Combo Amps |
| Color Family | Black |
| Effects Loop | No Effects Loop |
| Electronics | Tube |
| Number of Channels | 3 Channels |
| Number of Inputs | 6 Inputs |
| Output Power (Watts) | 30 |
| Power Tube Type | EL84 |
| Reverb | None |
| Speaker Configuration | 2x12" |
FAQs
-
What are the core tonal characteristics of the Vox AC30 TBX?
-
The Vox AC30 TBX is known for its bright, chimey tone with a pronounced midrange and sparkling highs, making it ideal for cutting through mixes in both live and studio settings.
-
Is the Vox AC30 TBX suitable for gigging with a drummer?
-
Yes, the Vox AC30 TBX's 30-watt output is powerful enough to hold its own in a live band setting, providing ample clean headroom and volume for gigging alongside a drummer.
-
Does the Vox AC30 TBX work well with effects pedals?
-
The Vox AC30 TBX is renowned for taking pedals well, particularly overdrives and modulation effects, enhancing its versatility for different musical styles and settings.
-
What type of speakers does the Vox AC30 TBX feature?
-
The Vox AC30 TBX is equipped with two 12-inch Blue Alnico speakers, known for their warm, dynamic response and classic British tone.
-
How many channels does the Vox AC30 TBX have?
-
The Vox AC30 TBX features three channels, allowing for a range of tonal options and flexibility in shaping your sound.
Videos
Vertex Effects
Don't Buy a Vintage Vox! Here's Why!
Reviews
Owner Insights
We analyzed real musician discussions from forums and Reddit to find what players love, question, and tweak about Vox AC30 TBX.
Features and functionality
-
The '90s/'00s UK-made TBX model lacks reverb and master volume, unlike the newer C2X which includes these features, offering more tonal versatility.
Source -
Current models lack a phase-shifting vibrato, which some owners compensate for by using a Boss VB-1W pedal for a similar effect.
Source -
The AC30C2 is noted for having a master volume and fully functioning tremolo, offering practical advantages for modern use compared to the AC30/6.
Source
Build quality
-
The Korg-era AC30 TBX has PCB-mounted tubes which may pose reliability concerns over time compared to chassis-mounted tubes in newer models.
Source -
The AC30 is described as heavy, which may be a consideration for those needing portability.
Source -
Post-2005, Vox manufacturing moved to China, and some users report a perceived decline in build quality compared to older, Korg-era models.
Source
Comparisons
-
Owners appreciate the Korg-era TBX for its vintage tone, often comparing its sound closer to '60s models than the newer C2X.
Source -
The AC30C2X features Celestion AlNiCo Blue speakers, known for their compression, while some prefer the Greenbacks for a warmer, more dynamic tone.
Source -
The AC30/6 Top Boost Reissue, with Celestion G12M Greenbacks, is praised for capturing classic Vox sound and better speaker quality compared to the AC30CC2 with Wharfedale speakers.
Source
Value and pricing
-
A used AC30C2X priced at $749 may be considered high by some, suggesting exploring options within the same budget range for potentially better deals.
Source
Use cases and applications
-
AC15 models are recommended as alternatives for those not needing the full power of an AC30, potentially offering better value for smaller gigs.
Source -
The AC30 is noted for being extremely loud, making the AC15 a better choice for home use or smaller gigs due to its manageable volume.
Source -
The AC30/6 allows three channels to be jumpered together, providing unique preamp gain mixing capabilities, but requires high volume to achieve distortion.
Source
Mods and upgrades
-
Adding a Mullard ECC83 from the Blackburn works to the V1 position is suggested for enhancing the AC30C2X's tone.
Source
Critic Reviews
5.0 out of 5
Based on 0 Reviews and 1 Rating
Genre Usage
Based on how artists on Equipboard use this gear, it is most commonly found in the following genres.
More Vox Combo Guitar Amplifiers
Accessories & Related Items
Artist usage
Community setups
Similar
Gear Guides
Most Popular Combo Guitar Amplifiers
Most Popular Brands
-
Added to Equipboard on by
jimmarchi1Gear IQ 41026
-